Hammersmith Bridge is closed to all traffic in both directions this weekend, from 5am on Saturday, January 23 until 5am on Monday, January 25.

It will then be closed every weekend until March 15 and the bridge will also be closed completely from Saturday, February 13 to Monday, February 22.

Diversions will be in place for buses using the bridge – 33, 72, 209, 283, 419, 485 and 609.

The closures will cause frustration for people on both sides of the river, who face lengthy diversions over other bridges.

Hammersmith and Fulham Council says that the closures are necessary to allow significant improvements to be made on Hammersmith Bridge Road, including a new bus barrier and a toucan crossing. The pavement and road will be resurfaced and unnecessary street furniture will be removed.

Cabinet member, Councillor Nicholas Botterill, says: “These road works are vital to free up the movement of traffic exiting Hammersmith gyratory and will help improve north south traffic flows in the borough - especially across the river.

" While there will be inevitable disruption in the short term, in the long term the works will free up our congested roads making a vast difference to all road users.”

For further information contact Jess Aethel on 020 8753 3443, or Michael Masella on 020 8753 3082. You can also email michael.masella@lbhf.gov.